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Trafford residents who are eligible for this year’s seasonal flu vaccine are being encouraged to get the jab at their GP surgery.
Among the high-risk groups being offered the vaccine are pregnant women, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions that could be worsened by influenza.
Martin Samangaya is NHS Trafford’s immunisation coordinator. He said: “Flu is an unpleasant virus that can make people very unwell. Those who are at higher risk of catching and suffering badly with flu should make sure they take advantage of the opportunity to have the vaccine.”
“The flu vaccine contains a dead form of the virus so it cannot give you the illness. It works by exposing your body to the features of the virus so it can make antibodies. This means you’re protected if you then encounter the virus later on.”
Even if people have not had flu before, they should still consider having the flu jab to protect themselves and the people around them. “For most people, flu will mean an unpleasant few days, but for some it can be fatal, which is why it’s important to protect yourself from the virus,” added Martin.
The flu vaccine contains various strains of the virus that are most likely to be in circulation. This year, that also includes H1N1, or swine flu, along with two other flu strains. “The fact that this year’s vaccine includes H1N1 shouldn’t put people off. It’s actually a very positive thing to be included as H1N1 is a nasty strain of flu, so the vaccine provides another layer of protection against winter flu,” said Martin.
All vaccines go through a strict approval process to ensure they are safe before they are given to the public.
If you are eligible for the vaccine, your GP surgery will invite you to go in to receive it. If you are unsure if you are in an at-risk group, ask your GP.
The at risk groups include people with:
Trafford Primary Care Trust, 2nd Floor Oakland House, Talbot Rd, Old Trafford, Manchester M16 0PQ